iSwitzerland Suggestion: Vevey

Vevey

The old city of Vevey is dotted with historical monuments and museums bearing witness to its rich heritage. In addition, a large variety of boutiques and craftsmen can be found in the narrow paved streets, displaying their know-how and wares.

Points of interest (museums, theaters, concert halls, tourist info, transports, events, and more): Montreux-Villeneuve - Vevey-La Tour

Vevey

A very ancient town, Vevey already existed in the primitive period of lake dwellers on piles. Later the Romans developed the village, well placed on the shore of Lake Geneva at the junction of the roads from their capital Avenches and from Lausanne, leading to Martigny and from there onwards to Italy.

The Roman town endured Barbarian invasions and became a fortified town in the Middle Ages. In 1257, it passed under the protection of the House of Savoy, then in 1536 submitted to the domination of the Bernese bailiffs.

Numerous Protestants sought refuge in Vevey after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685 and contributed to the prosperity of the town.

In 1798, Vevey, like the canton of Vaud, was freed from Bernese domination and became an important town thanks partially to its geographical location but also to its industries and hotelkeeping activities.

Vevey and its neighbour La Tour-de-Peilz and the nearby villages of Corseaux, Corsier, Chardonne/Mont-Pèlerin, Jongny, St-Légier/La Chiésaz and Blonay are much appreciated tourist holiday locations.

The region combines the advantages of town and country lifestyles. Walkers can easily reach the surrounding mountains, forests, fields of narcissi and vineyards.